Meet the Keynote Speakers and Facilitator of AMEC X AI Innovation Challenge 2026





The AMEC X AI Innovation Challenge 2026 is set to bring together talented students, innovators, and future leaders from around the world in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, from 1–5 July 2026.
One of the highlights of the program is the opportunity to learn directly from distinguished keynote speakers and facilitators who are making an impact in the fields of innovation, artificial intelligence, engineering education, technology, and creativity.
Zariq Mohd Al – LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort
We are excited to welcome Zariq Mohd Al from LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort as one of the keynote speakers at AMEC X AI Innovation Challenge 2026.
Born in France and raised across multiple countries, Zariq developed a passion for LEGO at a young age. What started as a childhood hobby has grown into a lifelong journey of creativity, design, and storytelling.
Through his inspiring experience, participants will discover:
The importance of creativity in innovation
How ideas can become impactful creations
The connection between design, storytelling, and technology
Why curiosity is essential for future innovators
His unique perspective demonstrates how imagination can shape meaningful innovation.
Nurzal Effiyana Ghazali, Ph.D. – Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM)
Joining the speaker lineup is Nurzal Effiyana Ghazali, Ph.D., Director of the UTM Centre for Engineering Education and a respected leader in engineering education.
Dr. Nurzal has extensive experience in higher education, engineering education, and international academic collaboration. Her work focuses on empowering future engineers through innovative learning approaches and technology-enhanced education.
Participants will gain valuable insights into:
Engineering education
Educational leadership
Technology-enhanced learning
International academic collaboration
Her expertise will inspire students to embrace innovation and lifelong learning.
Dr. Umawathy Techanamurthy – Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)
AMEC X AI Innovation Challenge 2026 is also honored to welcome Dr. Umawathy Techanamurthy from Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
As a senior lecturer specializing in engineering education and instructional technology, Dr. Umawathy has dedicated her career to improving education through innovative teaching methods and emerging technologies.
Her areas of expertise include:
AI in Education
Engineering Education
Instructional Technology
Research Methodology
Module Design and Development
Her session will encourage participants to explore how technology can transform learning and problem-solving in the modern world.
Ir. Dr. Ahmad Syahrin Idris – University of Southampton Malaysia
Another distinguished speaker at AMEC X AI Innovation Challenge 2026 is Ir. Dr. Ahmad Syahrin Idris from the University of Southampton Malaysia.
Before entering academia, Dr. Ahmad spent nearly a decade working with global technology companies such as Intel and Freescale Semiconductor. Today, he is recognized for his research in Artificial Intelligence and the Internet of Things (IoT), particularly in healthcare and safety applications.
Participants can look forward to learning about:
Artificial Intelligence and IoT
Innovation in Engineering Education
Future Technology Applications
Building a Global Research Mindset
His journey from industry engineer to AI researcher demonstrates the power of innovation, expertise, and continuous learning.
Daniel Richard Ransun – Krya Global
Serving as a facilitator for AMEC X AI Innovation Challenge 2026 is Daniel Richard Ransun from Krya Global.
As a Full-Stack Developer and technology professional, Richard is passionate about creating digital solutions that deliver meaningful impact. His experience spans web development, CMS platforms, SEO strategy, digital innovation, and emerging technologies.
During the program, participants will gain insights into:
Digital Innovation and Emerging Technologies
Artificial Intelligence Applications
Web Development and Digital Solutions
Technology-Based Problem Solving
Building a Growth Mindset in the Digital Era
Richard’s commitment to sharing knowledge and empowering communities through technology makes him an inspiring mentor for future innovators.
Join AMEC X AI Innovation Challenge 2026
AMEC X AI Innovation Challenge 2026 offers more than a competition. It is a platform where students can learn from industry professionals, researchers, educators, and innovators while exploring the future of technology and artificial intelligence.
With an outstanding lineup of speakers and facilitators, participants will gain valuable knowledge, practical insights, and inspiration to develop innovative solutions for real-world challenges.
Event Details
Location: Johor Bahru, Malaysia
Date: 1–5 July 2026
Join us and be part of an international experience that celebrates innovation, creativity, collaboration, and the future of AI.
